Alternative treatment

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a long-living, wild-growing herb with yellow flowers that has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders as well as nerve pain. In ancient times, doctors and herbalists wrote about its use as a sedative and antimalarial agent as well as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. Today, the herb is a popular treatment for mild to moderate depression; it also is used to treat anxiety, seasonal affective disorder, and sleep disorders. St. John's wort is most widely used in Germany, where doctors prescribed almost 66 million daily doses in 1994 for psychological complaints. In fact, German doctors prescribe St. John's wort about 20 times more often than Prozac. Many patients with depression are turning to herbal treatments such as St. John's wort, partly because of unpleasant side effects associated with antidepressant drugs such as a dry mouth, nausea, headache, diarrhoea, or impaired sexual function or sleep.

Researchers are studying it for possibly having fewer and less severe side effects than antidepressant drugs. St. John's wort also costs far less than antidepressant medication. In addition, St. John's wort does not require a prescription. However, St. John's wort is not completely free of side effects. Some users have complained of a dry mouth, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and fatigue. In addition, herbal treatments often are not as potent or as quick to act as conventional treatments. Furthermore, herbal treatments may not produce the desired results and may not be as effective as conventional medicine. Still, some people turn to herbs because they prefer to use "natural" products.

St. John's wort is not a proven therapy for clinical depression. Therefore, there is some risk in taking it to the disorder. It should not be mixed with other standard antidepressants because side effects may result. This is one reason why it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. Check with your doctor before taking St. John's wort or any other herb or medication. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits of a particular treatment so you can make informed health care decisions.